Is There a Difference Between Addiction vs Dependence?

A big part of learning the truth about addiction is learning to understand addiction terminology. Even within the addiction treatment industry, there are questions about the difference between addiction vs dependence. Truthfully, the distinction between these two things is a bit confusing. Just the same, there is a difference. However, both definitions should lead to detox and rehab. Hopefully, the information below will be helpful and clear up any misunderstandings.

The Difference Between Addiction vs Dependence

We can best define addiction as the individual’s inability to stop using drugs or alcohol. Such behavior usually results in relationship problems, trouble at work or school, financial problems and behavioral issues. While addiction does have some physical components, it mostly manifests itself through specific behaviors.

We can best define drug dependence regarding the body’s reaction to drugs or alcohol. As someone uses their substance of choice, the body adapts to the presence of the substance. As the body adjusts, it blocks the effects. In turn, the user takes more massive doses to get the effect they want. Again, the body adapts, and the effects diminish. Stating it another way, as the body’s tolerance for a substance increases, it needs more of the drug to create the wanted results.

Dependency as Part of Addiction

Above, we defined both terms. It should be clear there is a distinction between addiction and dependence. However, it’s also true that dependency is a subset of addiction. It’s a bit confusing, but we will attempt to explain further.

People start using drugs because a doctor prescribes them or because they want to escape reality. During the initial stages of taking a substance, the body adapts to the foreign substance. As the users increase their doses, dependence, as we defined, comes into play. As dependence (tolerance) increases, there comes a point where the user becomes addicted. Simply put, dependency creates the early stages of addiction.

Get Treatment at Beaches Recovery

Addiction is the inability to stop using drugs or alcohol. At Beaches Recovery, we treat patients with this issue. We help them detox, counsel them and send them out to live life on life’s terms. We do this through the use of custom treatment programs we have built around these options:

Now that you understand the difference between addiction vs dependence, don’t let your addiction continue to disrupt your life. There are so many good things you have yet to experience. If you want help with your addiction, Beaches Recovery will give you that help. The first step is yours to take. All you have to do is pick up the phone and call us at 866-605-0532. The road to recovery is waiting for you.